Originally part of the Shea’s chain, the North Park Theatre exemplified a spacious comfortable neighborhood theatre, which originally seated 1,222 when it opened in 1920. While certainly not a movie palace like the Shea’s Buffalo Theatre (now the Shea’s Performing Arts Center), it’s grand by today’s expectations. The theatre building (and the theatre itself) have that solid look and feel that’s almost impossible to reproduce with modern architecture.

The beautiful wooden entry doors and marble entryway represent sharp contrast to the multiplexes. The marquee is impressive and although the theatre is a little worn it’s kept tidy. Even more important, it’s kept adequately warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

I don’t think I’d catagorize the North Park Theatre as an art house but they tend to show only semi-mainstream and some foreign films. I’ve seen several good films at the North Park Theatre. Their popcorn is good and the neighborhood hosts many excellent reasonably priced restaurants. Operated by Dipson Theatres for many years, it was taken over by independent management in 2013. Restoration and renovations were carried out, and new digital projection equipment installed. The North Park Theatre was reopened March 7, 2014 with “Girl on a Bicycle”.

A trip to the North Park Theatre and Hertel Avenue is an enjoyable experience.

I remember going to this movie house many times while I was at UB. It was a great place and showed many European films at that time. It had an interesting decor, but could have done with a little smartening up – I don’t think people realize what a treasure this place is. Always enjoyed going there. I am glad to see that it is still open for business. Well done owners and staff!!!

Why does the North Park have that funny metal stage where the wooden stage would of been? There is also a baby grand piano on that stage as well. I went there in the 1970’s and the funny stage and piano where there back then.

Great news is although it had been reported Dipson is closing it on June 6th, the building’s owner and a local restauranteur are planning on upgrading and restoring this beautiful cinema (which sadly isn’t in the greatest shape): http://www.buffalonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130523/CITYANDREGION/130529619/1010

With community support, it is possible that the Buffalo Cinematheque may help resurrect and upgrade the theater. Look for a KickStarter soon to support this. It will require serious interest on the part of the entire community.

Hi! I work with the new ownership group. You can keep updates on our progress by following us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/nptheatre and signing up at our website, http://www.northparktheatre.org

The goal is to create a DESTINATION movie theatre experience for films buffs all over the Northeast.